Doncaster Rovers: Richie Wellens has still got it - Dickov

Paul Goodwin

Paul Dickov has leapt to the defence of Richie Wellens - but also urged him to keep a lid on his temper.

Wellens’ performances were regularly put under the microscope by fans last season, with inevitable comparisons made with his excellent previous spell at the club between 2007 and 2009.

The former Manchester United trainee turned 35 earlier this year and, following the addition of Richard Chaplow, some supporters will question whether Wellens should continue to be one of the first names on the teamsheet.

Dickov says Wellens is still the best passer of a football in League One and is one of the fittest players on Doncaster’s books.

He would like him to be less demonstrative though.

“I think Richie did okay last season,” Dickov told The Star.

“When Richie plays well, we play well. I don’t there’s any secret about that.

“Richie is such an intelligent footballer - not just in terms of ability but in his head as well - and he gets frustrated at times. As a senior pro you can’t let that frustration show.

“But on form Richie Wellens is the best midfielder, passing-wise, in this division.”

Wellens made 47 appearances in total last season and Dickov has no qualms about his ability to play another prominent role this time around.

“Richie is as fit as a fiddle,” said Dickov.

“Because of the way he plays, he always wants to get on the ball and slow things down, [it might not always appear so]. But he’s right at the top when it comes to any of the fitness things we do.

“It’s testament to the senior lads, like Richie, Copps, Nathan Tyson and Paul Keegan, that they are the ones out in front.